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Study of giant cell arteritis rates largest ever conducted in U.S., researcher says

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ATLANTA — A study of temporal artery biopsies performed in Northern California had the largest and most diverse patient population of any similar study done in the United States, a researcher said here.

The study showed a much higher rate of temporal artery biopsies testing positive for giant cell arteritis (GCA) than a Mayo Clinic study done in the 1950s, Matthew Walvick, DO, said at the American Academy of Ophthalmology meeting.

"This study represents the most diverse population ever examined and can be generalized to the diverse population of the United States more than any previous study," Dr. Walvick said.

The study results showed the prevalence of positive biopsies for GCA per 100,000 patients who were 50 years and older, he said. Data showed 448 out of almost 3,000 biopsies testing positive for GCA.

The more recent study drew from a diverse population reflecting the entire United States. The Mayo Clinic study had included a small patient population of mostly Scandinavian descent, Dr. Walvick said.